Various OEM's have determined that it is necessary to maintain two viscosity grades of Tractor Hydraulic Fluid for the purpose of cold temperature property improvement with a lower viscosity grade. They believe that the equipment can operate better at severely cold temperatures with a thinner fluid.
However, additive and lubricant suppliers have both concluded that any standard viscosity tractor hydraulic fluid meeting the required Brookfield Viscosity for cold temperature performance will perform satisfactorily at temperatures similar to that of the low viscosity tractor hydraulic fluid.
The reasoning behind this is the presence of cold flow improvement additives, typically polymers, which exist in appreciable amounts in these standard viscosity tractor hydraulic fluids. Because of the additives, the fluids may actually become similar in viscosity during use.
In addition, the lower viscosity tractor hydraulic fluid might lack the film strength of its higher viscosity counterpart because of the physical nature of the viscosities. Less film strength will allow surfaces to contact with greater frequency, thereby increasing the potential for wear.
Lastly, the lower viscosity tractor hydraulic fluids will typically have an entirely different additive package which does not have the benefits of the zinc-based additive package utilized in the traditional tractor hydraulic fluids.
Universal Trac Gard is formulated with the optimal base stocks, polymers, and performance additives for operation in a wide range of temperatures. Use of Universal Trac Gard has been approved in place of low viscosity tractor hydraulic fluids that may be recommended by an OEM.
As always, if you have any questions about our lubricants or your equipment applications, please feel free to callTechnical Services Dept. at 1-800-444-6457.
